Acculturation and ethnic identity in marginal immigrant South Asian men in Britain: A psychotherapeutic perspective

The incidence of mental health problems, and their treatment, for immigrant South Asians in Britain appear to be similar to that of the White population. However, there are some significant differences in relation to problems of substance misuse, treatment for depression and suicide. Difficulties in acculturation and in developing an integrated ethnic identity may contribute to some of these differences. Drawing from narratives of marginal immigrant South Asian men, a range of themes is identified. The implications of these issues for therapists are discussed.